Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer, then you’re in for a treat with this Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette! This salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with the sweet juiciness of peaches, the crunch of pecans, and the creamy goodness of goat cheese. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this salad shines on every table.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. The basil vinaigrette serves double duty, acting as both a flavorful dressing and a marinade for the grilled chicken. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that will make your taste buds dance and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This salad comes together in no time, making it perfect for those hectic days.
• Fresh flavors: The combination of grilled chicken, juicy peaches, and aromatic basil creates a deliciously bright dish.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves this salad! It’s a great way to enjoy healthy ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
• Make-ahead option: You can prep the vinaigrette in advance and marinate the chicken ahead of time for quick assembly later.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s lunch or dinner, this salad fits right in at picnics, barbecues, or casual weeknight meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh ingredients is one of the joys of cooking! For this delightful Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that are easy to find:

For the Basil Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 peaches (quartered)
• 2 ounces goat cheese (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup toasted chopped pecans
• Mixed greens

Variations

The beauty of this salad is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If chicken isn’t your thing, try grilled shrimp or tofu for a delicious alternative.
• Change up the fruit: Not in the mood for peaches? Fresh berries or mangoes would work beautifully!
• Experiment with nuts: Pecans add great crunch, but walnuts or almonds could bring their unique flavor to the dish.
• Add some greens: Toss in spinach or arugula for extra nutrients and flavor.

How to Make Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by making your basil vinaigrette! In a blender or food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, white balsamic vinegar, olive oil, water, honey, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth. This marinade not only infuses your chicken with flavor but also serves as a tasty dressing.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your boneless skinless chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour half of your basil vinaigrette over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. Marinating allows all those wonderful flavors to soak into the chicken—trust me; it makes all the difference!

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and grill for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. The grill adds beautiful char marks while keeping the chicken juicy.

Step 4: Prepare Your Peaches

While your chicken is grilling away, quarter your peaches. Grilling them briefly can enhance their sweetness even more if you like! Just pop them on the grill for about 2-3 minutes until they get nice grill marks.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl or platter, layer mixed greens as your base. Slice up that beautifully grilled chicken and place it on top along with grilled peaches. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and toasted pecans over everything for added texture.

Step 6: Drizzle with Dressing

Finally, don’t forget to drizzle some of that amazing basil vinaigrette over your salad before serving. Toss gently if desired so every bite has that delicious flavor!

And there you have it—your Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is ready to be enjoyed! Perfectly light yet satisfying; this dish will quickly become a staple in your summer menu. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette

Creating the perfect grilled chicken salad is easier than you think! Here are some tips to elevate your culinary experience.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil, ripe peaches, and quality goat cheese enhance flavors and textures. Fresh produce brings vibrancy to your dish, making it not only tastier but also visually appealing.
• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the basil vinaigrette for at least an hour (or overnight) infuses it with delightful flavors. This step ensures that every bite is packed with that delicious basil taste.
• Grill at the right temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for even cooking. Cooking at the right temperature helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Toast your pecans: Toasting nuts before adding them to salads enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch. A quick toast brings out their natural oils and makes them more aromatic.
• Assemble just before serving: For optimal freshness, combine all ingredients right before serving. This prevents sogginess and keeps your greens vibrant and crisp!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette

This salad is as beautiful as it is delicious! Presenting it well can make a simple meal feel special for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves scattered on top add a pop of color and a burst of herbal aroma.
• Balsamic reduction drizzle: A light drizzle of balsamic reduction creates an elegant finish while enhancing sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet potato fries bring a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the salad’s softness. They are baked until golden brown for a healthier twist.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing complements the grilled chicken perfectly. It adds another layer of nutrition and texture to your meal.
• Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender provides a green side bursting with flavor. Its slight crunch pairs wonderfully with the creamy goat cheese in the salad.
• Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers featuring seasonal fruits such as watermelon, strawberries, and kiwi offer a sweet ending to your meal. They’re perfect for summer gatherings!

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that captures the essence of summer! Each bite will transport you to sunny picnics or backyard barbecues with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare most of the components in advance, making it an easy option for busy weeknights or lunch on the go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness; it can be stored for up to a week.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for optimal taste and quality.

Freezing

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of the greens and peaches will change upon thawing.
• However, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat grilled chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave: place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Add fresh ingredients like mixed greens just before serving to keep everything crisp.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delightful salad recipe, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I use other fruits instead of peaches in the Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette?

Absolutely! Nectarines or plums would work wonderfully as substitutes. Feel free to experiment with your favorite summer fruits!

What type of greens should I use for the Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette?

Mixed greens work best for this salad; however, you can also use arugula or spinach for a different flavor profile. Choose what you love!

How long does the basil vinaigrette last?

The basil vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a shake before using!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can skip the grilled chicken entirely or replace it with grilled tofu or chickpeas for protein while keeping the rest of the salad ingredients intact.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Grilled Chicken, Peach, Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of summer’s flavors. Whether you’re having a cozy dinner at home or impressing friends at a gathering, this dish is sure to delight everyone at your table. Happy cooking!